Gangneung Ojukheon: A Journey Through the Birthplace of Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi I

Gangneung's Ojukheon is a significant historical site, renowned as the birthplace of Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi I, and the actual setting for figures and imagery found on Korean banknotes. This cultural heritage landmark in Gangneung attracts numerous visitors eager to explore its historical importance and scenic beauty. The Mongnyongsil room within the main Ojukheon building is particularly famous as Yulgok Yi I's birth chamber, and the name Ojukheon itself derives from the abundance of black bamboo (ojuk) in the area.

Ojukheon features a variety of attractions including the main Ojukheon building, Munseongsa Shrine, Sarangchae, Jagyeongmun Gate, Yulgok Memorial Hall, Shin Saimdang's Chochungdo flower garden, the Ojuk bamboo forest path, the statue of Yulgok Yi I, Gangneung Currency Exhibition Hall, and Yulgok Children's Museum. Operating hours are daily from 09:00 to 18:00, with last admission at 17:00. The admission fee for adults is 3,000 KRW, while Korean citizens aged 65 and above, preschoolers, and Gangneung residents can enter for free with ID. Visitors to Ojukheon can also receive discounts for nearby Gangneung attractions like Gyeongpo Aquarium on the same day.

Visitors can trace the footsteps of Shin Saimdang and Yulgok Yi I at Ojukheon, reflecting on its historical significance. Many reviews highlight that children, especially, found the visit engaging thanks to audio guide QR codes and interactive exhibits in the Yulgok Memorial Hall. For summer visits, it is advisable to bring parasols or hats and water. The red crape myrtle flowers around Jagyeongmun Gate provide a picturesque backdrop for photographs.